Lahore, In a landmark move to enhance higher education, the University of Management and Technology (UMT) has forged a strategic partnership with the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC). This collaboration was formalized during an official visit to the OIC General Secretariat in Jeddah, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, on January 16, 2024.

According to University of Management and Technology, the historic partnership was cemented through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). Rector Dr. Asif Raza represented UMT at this significant event, which saw the establishment of a scholarship program for students from OIC Member States. The ceremony was graced by the presence of H.E. Hissein Brahim Taha, the OIC Secretary General. Dr. Raza and H.E. Ambassador Askar Mussinov, Assistant Secretary General of Science and Technology for the OIC, signed the MoU, thereby solidifying their commitment to advancing education across OIC member nations.

The signing event was attended by notable figures including Irfan Bajwa, Head of the Office of Internationalization at UMT, the focal person of OIC for Science and Technology, vice chancellors from Islamic universities of various countries, and distinguished members of OIC strategic organizations.

This groundbreaking alliance marks a significant step towards fostering educational opportunities, promoting cross-cultural understanding, and strengthening the bonds between UMT and OIC member states. The partnership is expected to open new avenues for students in OIC Member States, paving the way for a brighter educational future.

UMT has a long-standing commitment to making higher education accessible, having awarded scholarships worth over Rs 10 billion to more than 28,000 deserving students over a span of more than 33 years. The latest scholarship initiative for students in OIC Member States is not only expected to create economic and social opportunities for the beneficiaries but also aims to foster stronger ties within the Muslim world.